Egg Farmers of Ontario invest $1 million into egg drug research

Apr 01, 2013

Egg farmers fund egg-derived depression drug solution

A new antidepressant drug derived from eggs is getting support from egg producers themselves. Egg Farmers of Ontario announced the investment of $1 million in research and development funding to United Paragon Associations to fund clinical trials for an antidepressant drug that may see eggs as part of the solution to address depression.

The new antidepressant drug called Rellidep™ is being tested as an antidepressant drug for people who are suffering from depression. Some of the key ingredients of the drug come from eggs – which has the potential to increase the production and marketing of eggs in Ontario.

The funding dollars will partially fund the second phase of clinical trials for Rellidep™. Early tests of the drug indicate that it may be more effective than current antidepressants on the market.

Egg Farmers of Ontario represents roughly 440 egg and pullet farmers in the province and operates as an industry funded organization

Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.